Learning Support Assistant
College – SEND - Christchurch, Dorset
£15.29 per hour – 32.5 hours per week – 40 weeks per year
September start
Disclaimer - Do you like horses? If so, please continue...
Academics have a rare and exciting opportunity for an experienced Learning Support Assistant/HLTA to join a specialist College for young adults with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) in Christchurch, Dorset, starting in September 2026.
This is a unique setting combining education with horse riding therapy. Students follow an individualised curriculum, learning independent living skills, social and communication skills, Maths, English, ICT, skills for work and, when relevant, achieve accredited qualifications.
They are looking for an experienced Learning Support Assistant/HLTA who is confident in delivering functional skills English and Maths to small groups of pupils aged 16–25 with a range of SEND, using the College’s unique equine specialism. The focus revolves around working with horses to prepare young people for adulthood by increasing their independence and employment options, whilst achieving academic and vocational qualifications and knowledge that will equip them for the next stage in their lives, be that further education, training, or work. This is a great opportunity for someone looking to take the next step into teaching.
The College is set within the New Forest and is surrounded by stunning scenery. The College has 28 resident horses that provide a focus for learning and help to embed transferable skills. Due to this, you must have a passion/interest in horses, or be comfortable working in a setting with horses.
As a Learning Support Assistant /HLTA you will:
* Deliver engaging and sessions to small groups, Maths and English using their equine specialism
* Work collaboratively with other members of staff as part of a multi-disciplinary team
* Be involved in setting, monitoring and reviewing personalised targets
* Contribute to the review of EHC plans
The successful Learning Support Assistant/HLTA must have:
* Experience of working with young adults in a school/college setting
* The confidence to work with small groups, delivering Functional skills, Maths and English
* Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal
* Effective skills in planning, preparation, recording and reviewing students’ progress
* Ability to engage students in positive enabling relationships
* Experience of working with young people with SEND
* Experience with horses - or happy to work in environment
Benefits and Additional Information:
* Full training and continued support
* Lunch and refreshments in working hours
* A £750 referral bonus
* A retail benefits platform
* A health care plan and wellbeing platform
* Life cover plan
* Income protection scheme
* Trade Shires catalogue prices
* Pension scheme
If you are an experienced Learning Support Assistant/HLTA and would love to work in this lovely setting working with horses in the New Forest (Christchurch), please apply.
